Omani student develops bacteria-based cancer treatment

MUSCAT: Omani student Taif bint Obaid al Qaidiyah from Al Sharqiyah University has developed a scientific project related to cancer treatment using genetically modified bacteria. The project won her first place and a representation of the Sultanate of Oman at the Falling Walls International Forum, which will be held at the German capital, Berlin, in November.

The project is based on the use of genetically modified bacteria as a smart tool that can directly access the tumor environment and affect it from within, either by secreting anti-cancer substances or by stimulating the immune system to attack the tumor.

Al Qaidiyah went on to say that the project aims to develop an innovative treatment that targets cancer cells, helps reduce the side effects associated with chemotherapy and opens new horizons in the field of cancer treatment.

She noted that the anticipated positive results of the project include the bacteria’s ability to target only the tumor area thus reducing damage to healthy cells and increasing the chances of controlling the tumor or minimizing its size. It may provide new hope for treating advanced cancer unresponsive to conventional treatments.

What distinguishes this scientific project is its reliance on smart microorganisms as a treatment method unlike most projects that focus on chemotherapy or radiation, she said, adding that it combines biotherapy with genetic technology, paving the way for personalized treatments that adapt to each patient’s specific needs and type of tumor.

Al Qaidiyah said that the project’s future goals include developing a bacterial-based prototype for clinical trials, collaborating with international research centres and universities to prove the treatment’s effectiveness and safety, expanding the scope of the research to include multiple types of cancerous tumors, and registering a patent for the idea as an Omani contribution to combating cancer. — ONA